apostolic see: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Formal, Ecclesiastical, Historical
Quick answer
What does “apostolic see” mean?
The ecclesiastical jurisdiction of the Bishop of Rome, the Pope.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The ecclesiastical jurisdiction of the Bishop of Rome, the Pope; the papacy.
The central government of the Catholic Church, its authority, or the physical location (Rome/Vatican) from which it governs. Can also refer, historically, to sees founded by other Apostles.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical or semantic difference. Usage is identical in both varieties, dictated by context (ecclesiastical, historical).
Connotations
Carries the same formal, institutional, and religious connotations in both cultures.
Frequency
Equally low-frequency in both varieties, limited to specialist discourse.
Grammar
How to Use “apostolic see” in a Sentence
The [Apostolic See] issued a statement.They appealed to the [Apostolic See].Diplomatic relations with the [Apostolic See] were established.The authority of the [Apostolic See] is recognised.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “apostolic see” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The apostolic see authority was unquestioned.
- They sought an apostolic see decree.
American English
- The Apostolic See's authority was unquestioned.
- They sought an Apostolic See decree.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually never used.
Academic
Used in history, theology, religious studies, and canon law texts.
Everyday
Extremely rare outside of religious discussion.
Technical
Core term in Catholic ecclesiology, diplomacy (e.g., nuncios represent the Apostolic See), and canon law.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “apostolic see”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “apostolic see”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “apostolic see”
- Using 'apostolic sea' (spelling error).
- Using it as a plural ('apostolic sees' refers to multiple ancient sees, not the Roman one).
- Confusing it with 'Apostolic Palace' (a specific building).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
They are closely related but not identical. The 'Apostolic See' refers primarily to the office and universal jurisdiction of the Pope. The 'Vatican' is the city-state and physical territory that serves as the seat of that government.
Historically, yes. Sees founded by other Apostles (e.g., Alexandria by St. Mark) were sometimes called apostolic sees. However, in modern Catholic usage, the term (often capitalised) specifically denotes the See of Rome.
The word 'see' comes from the Latin 'sedes', meaning 'seat'. It refers to the cathedra (bishop's throne) in a cathedral, symbolising the bishop's teaching authority and jurisdiction over a diocese.
Primarily in formal Catholic Church documents (encyclicals, canon law), news reports about Vatican diplomacy, and academic texts on Church history or Christian theology.
The ecclesiastical jurisdiction of the Bishop of Rome, the Pope.
Apostolic see is usually formal, ecclesiastical, historical in register.
Apostolic see: in British English it is pronounced /ˌapəˈstɒlɪk siː/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌæpəˈstɑːlɪk siː/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “The voice of the Apostolic See (meaning the official teaching of the Pope).”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think APOSTOLIC (from the Apostles) + SEE (a bishop's seat). The 'seat' of authority founded by the Apostle Peter in Rome.
Conceptual Metaphor
THE CHURCH IS A GOVERNMENT (the See is its capital/seat of power). AUTHORITY IS A PHYSICAL LOCATION (the See is the source from which authority emanates).
Practice
Quiz
Which of the following is a direct synonym for 'Apostolic See' in its most common modern usage?